MRC Cab Control Model 44

[carmelmodelrr]

I was cleaning out some of my OLD model RR items today and came upon a boxed, never used MRC Model 44 Cab Control.  I have no idea what this could be used for, but it is heavy and, I'm guessing, somewhat useless in the current state of electrical items.  If anyone can explain to me what this might be used for on a 2026 model railroad--or if anyone wants this I'd be happy to send it to you for the cost of postage.

carmelmodelrr

[Maletrain]

Search the Internet for "MRC Model 44 Cab Controler"

The response I got explained its uses and issues, but I can no longer copy that text and paste it here. (damn "updates")  So, search it yourself and read it there.

[Point353]

Intended for use as a wired "walkaround" controller (or extra controller) powered from the DC output of a power pack or other DC power supply.

[$2 Bill]

Very likely is same design as Tyco etc power packs in What's inside those Power "Bricks?"  https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=60146.0

I wouldn't use it unless took apart to see if has problems like old "tank" pack with acid rotten wires from old plastic insulation in first post in that thread.
Or if has Metal Rectifiers that go bad after 40+ years & smells like hell when burn out.

[learmoia]

It takes a fixed DC signal and gives you variable control... if you give it a long cable then it's a walk around throttle..

So if you have a base MRC power pack with variable DC, fixed DC, and AC.. you can hook this up to the fixed DC and give yourself a 2nd throttle.

They made several of these.. 55, 77 ect..

[$2 Bill]

Sorry, was in a rush for another meeting & missed DC Input.

so skip the rectifier issue.
But take it apart to check wires & control are good. This & many other Metal Case MRC products are 40+ years old & may need cleaning etc.

Maybe not a "true" rheostat for amount of rage of the knob. Most "real" ones operate 0º to ~ 300º unless paid for custom part often costing big money even back then.
Small range is sign maybe sim to Tyco & other packs but just have a better knob to make it look good.

[Doug G.]

Very likely is same design as Tyco etc power packs in What's inside those Power "Bricks?"  https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=60146.0

I wouldn't use it unless took apart to see if has problems like old "tank" pack with acid rotten wires from old plastic insulation in first post in that thread.
Or if has Metal Rectifiers that go bad after 40+ years & smells like hell when burn out.

It has no rectifier and no transformer. All it has is a rheostat, direction switch. and circuit breaker. It's harmless on its own, even if malfunctioning.

EDIT: Hmm. your second post didn't appear for me. Sorry.

Doug

[$2 Bill]

I found the "Manual" for this @ https://modeltrainmarket.com/products/mrc-model-44-dc-power-cab-control
MRC doesn't seem to have a PDF for this.

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Edited for fit & readable.

Text is below. (Edit to remove "Dashes"/Hyphens etc in the Original Printing job.)

MODEL #44 CAB CONTROL
For HO and TT Gauge
The MRC CAB CONTROL MODEL #44 is designed to expand the number of controlled track sections on your HO railroad. When connected to the 12 volt DC terminals on the Twinpower, Throttle Pack, Dual Loco Pack, Modelpack, Tripack, or any MRC rectifier, this unit will control speed and direction in an additional track section.
Designed to facilitate pike expansion with rapidity and ease, the Cab Control Model #44 contains taper wound rheostat, reversing switch, and a protection circuit which combines both a circuit breaker to interrupt power output and an overload light to indicate when a short circuit is present. When an overload occurs, the indicator light will glow. To reset, turn the speed control fully counter-clockwise, correct the cause of the overload, Wait two minutes and then turn the unit back on.
INPUT:
Connect "Input DC" terninals on the Cab Control Model #44 to a 12 volt DC power source.
OUTPUT:
Connect "Track DC" terirnals to track section or block to be controlled, either direct? or through switch and terminal strips.
MODEL RECTIFIER CORPORATION ▪ EDISON, N. J. 08817

Note: "Updated"/"Upgraded" Versions are Cab Control #55. First version used a "Better" 300º Rheostat/POT & different case design. Second version has a Bigger Case. Both works the same but seems to be "Transistorize" to set speed like Tech2 1400 etc. Can find a Later Version PDF (© 1993) @ MRC too.